ONLINE EX TRAINING HITS THE MARK

The challenges of COVID-19 are affecting every business, and where possible, some aspects have been transferred to an online setting. Professional training remains as important as ever, and the AEMT has developed online courses that enable delegates to complete training on Ex-rated equipment to acquire or renew certification.

All staff involved in the repair, overhaul or reclamation of Ex equipment, such as motors, pumps or gearboxes, should be properly trained for these tasks and periodically this training needs to be refreshed. Of course, some aspects of the training requires handson practice, and participants will be expected to accomplish a practical test as well.

Depending on their role in the organisation, staff need to understand the correct procedures and practices for the repair of explosion-protected equipment. This is essential to ensure the original certifications are maintained as well as compliance with legal and health and safety requirements.

To ensure continued professional development in these challenging times, the AEMT offers managers and staff involved directly in the repair and maintenance of equipment used in zoned areas ATEX training courses recognised by the IECEx.

Online courses are modular, allowing delegates to select the most appropriate courses for their needs. Module 1 covers the basics of Ex including, zones, categories, protection concepts, markings, standards and certificates. Module 2 is the hands-on course, which focuses on the repair, overhaul and reclamation of Ex equipment using BS EN IEC 60079-19 as the guideline. The module takes delegates through measuring and calculating an Ex’d machine’s enclosure, good practice for repairers and end-users. Module 3 is a refresher course for those that require a three-year assessment to update their current certification. The practical aspect of the training is very important, and AEMT trainers have developed the online course to deliver practical training and the required assessment. For example, delegates can watch a demonstration video that shows, step-bystep, how to determine an Ex’d machine’s volume. They can then practice the procedures in their own time until they feel confident enough to take the assessment.

Throughout the training courses, delegates have full interaction with the trainer, and are assessed on their progress with multiple-choice questions. The final assessment is a one-on-one format with coaching from the lecturer on any areas of difficulty.

Feedback on these training courses has been very positive. “The online AEMT Ex Training is the best course I have participated in since I started working in 1991,” commented Ramiro Pinto, EFACEC.

Kevin Price of WEG added: “I found it to be very interesting and worthwhile. Also, it was great for me that the course was online. I understand that due to COVID restrictions, wehad to do an online course, but I see no reason why this course could not be made permanent.”

I understand that due to COVID restrictions, we had to do an online course, but I see no reason why this course could not be made permanent.

Meanwhile, Carl Barnes from Hayley 247 explained: “I thoroughly enjoyed the course. I felt that both instructors demonstrated in-depth knowledge and were helpful with any questions we had. I was a little anxious about the course being online but was very impressed with the level of teaching, and I came away from the four days feeling well prepared to repair ATEX units. All in all, I would highly recommend the course!”

www.ex-repair.com/overview